Facelift

facesculpt plastic surgery Chicago, Illinois

what is a facelift?

As we grow older, the elasticity of the muscles and skin in the cheeks, jaw, and neck can diminish, leading to sagging. Over time, this can result in a tired, unhappy, and less healthy appearance. Luckily, Dr. Vagotis is here to help with a facelift.

A facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that lifts and tightens the skin on your face and neck. It can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, sagging skin, and other signs of aging. The procedure typically involves making incisions near the ears and lifting the skin and underlying tissues. Dr. Vagotis may also remove excess fat and tighten the underlying muscles.

benefits of getting a facelift in chicago

Experienced surgeons: FaceSculpt Chicago is home to highly skilled plastic surgeons who specialize in facelift surgery. They have years of experience and have performed countless successful surgeries.
State-of-the-art facilities: Chicago is known for its advanced medical facilities and technology. This means that you can expect top-notch care during and after your procedure.
Natural-looking results: A skilled surgeon can provide natural-looking results that enhance your appearance without making you look "fake" or overdone.

facelift-before-after-photos-chicago-facesculpt-dr-francine-vagotis

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What to expect during a facelift procedure

After your facelift with Dr. Vagotis, you will need to take time off work and avoid strenuous activity for several weeks. You may experience some swelling and bruising, but this should subside within a few weeks. It's important to follow your aftercare instructions from Dr. Vagotis to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results.

What happens exactly during a facelift?

Anesthesia: Your surgeon will administer anesthesia to ensure that you are comfortable during the procedure.
Incisions: Your FaceSculpt surgeon will make incisions near the ears and hairline.
Lifting and tightening: Your surgeon will lift and tighten the skin and underlying tissues, removing excess fat and tightening the underlying muscles as needed.
Closing the incisions: Your FaceSculpt surgeon will close the incisions with sutures or staples.
Recovery: After your facelift, you will need to take time off work and avoid strenuous activity for several weeks.

Facelift surgery before & After Photos

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Facelift Surgery faq

What is a facelift, and how does it work?

A facelift gives you a more youthful appearance! By tightening the underlying tissues and removing excess skin, a facelift can help improve the appearance of jowls, sagging cheeks, and a double chin. It can also smooth out wrinkles and creases, particularly around the lower face and neck.

In your facelift procedure, incisions are made in strategic locations, usually along the hairline and behind the ears, to minimize visible scarring. Dr. Vagotis then lifts and repositions the deeper layers of the face, including the muscles and fat, to restore a more youthful contour. Excess skin is trimmed, and the remaining skin is carefully re-draped and sutured into place.

Am I a good candidate for a facelift?

You may be a good candidate for a facelift if you have sagging skin, wrinkles, or other signs of aging on your face and neck.

How long does the procedure take and what is the recovery time?

Your facelift procedure will typically take several hours, depending on the extent of the surgery.

The recovery time from facelift surgery can vary from person to person, and it depends on the extent of the procedure and adherence to Dr. Vagotis' post-operative care instructions. Here is a general timeline of the recovery process following a facelift with Dr. Francine Vagotis:

Immediately after surgery: You will experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated areas. Dressings or bandages may be applied to protect the incisions, and small drainage tubes may be temporarily placed to remove excess fluids.
First week: Swelling and bruising are typically at their peak during the first few days after surgery. You may be prescribed pain medications to manage any discomfort. It's important to keep your head elevated, avoid strenuous activities, and follow your surgeon's instructions regarding wound care.
Two to three weeks: Most patients are able to return to work and resume light activities within two to three weeks after the procedure. However, residual swelling and bruising may still be present, though they will gradually improve.
Six weeks: By this time, the majority of the swelling and bruising should have subsided. You may begin to see the initial results of the facelift, although some residual swelling may persist.
Several months: Over the next few months, the final results of the facelift will become more apparent as the tissues continue to heal and settle. Incision lines will fade and refine during this period.

Will there be scarring after the procedure?

As with any surgery, there may be some scarring. However Dr. Vagotis' is experienced in being able to hide incisions so it will not be noticeable.

What are the risks and potential complications associated with a facelift?

Risks and potential complications of a facelift include bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, nerve injury, asymmetry, hairline changes, skin necrosis, and anesthesia-related risks. These risks can vary in severity and occurrence, and it's important to discuss them thoroughly with Dr. Vagotis before proceeding with the surgery.

What kind of results can I expect from a facelift, and how long will they last?

The results of your facelift can vary depending on skin condition, aging process, surgical technique, and following post-operative care. Generally, a facelift can provide a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance by reducing your sagging skin, improving facial contours, and smoothing out wrinkles. The results are typically long-lasting, but it's important to note that the natural aging process will continue over time.

When will I see the results of my facelift?

You should see the results of your facelift within a few weeks, once the swelling and bruising have subsided.

Can I combine a facelift with other cosmetic procedures, such as a neck lift or eyelid surgery?

Yes, it is common for people to combine a facelift with other cosmetic procedures to achieve more comprehensive rejuvenation. Some commonly combined procedures at FaceSculpt include:

Neck lift: to address sagging skin and muscle bands in the neck)
Eyelid surgery: to correct droopy eyelids or remove excess skin and fat around the eyes
Brow lift: to elevate and reshape the eyebrows
Fat transfer: to restore lost volume in the face

Are there non-surgical alternatives to a facelift that may be more suitable for my needs?

Yes, there are non-surgical alternatives to a facelift that can address certain concerns and may be more suitable depending on your needs and preferences. Some common non-surgical options that Dr. Vagotis recommends as alternatives include:

Dermal fillers: Injectable fillers, such as hyaluronic acid-based fillers, can help restore lost volume, smooth out wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. They are commonly used to address nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and loss of volume in the cheeks or lips.
Botox injections: can temporarily relax specific facial muscles to reduce the appearance of dynamic wrinkles, such as forehead lines, crow's feet, and frown lines between the eyebrows.
Thread lifts: This procedure involves inserting dissolvable threads beneath the skin to lift and tighten sagging tissues. It can help improve facial contours and address mild to moderate skin laxity.
Laser resurfacing: Laser treatments can stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture, tone, and fine lines. They can be used to address age spots, uneven pigmentation, and mild wrinkles.
Chemical peels: Chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to the skin, which exfoliates the outer layers and promotes cell turnover. They can improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and address pigmentation irregularities.
Ultrasound and radiofrequency treatments: These non-invasive procedures use ultrasound or radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin. They can be effective in improving mild to moderate skin laxity.

How much does a facelift cost, and what factors influence the price?

The cost of a facelift in Chicago can vary depending on factors such as the surgeon's experience, the complexity of the procedure, facility fees, and additional expenses.

In Chicago, the cost of a facelift typically ranges from approximately $10,000 to $20,000 or more. However, it's important to note that this is a rough estimate and prices can vary significantly based on individual circumstances.

For an accurate estimate, schedule your consultation with Dr. Vagotis now!

What questions should I ask my surgeon during a consultation for a facelift?

Here are some key questions to consider before your surgery:

Are you board-certified in plastic surgery? How many years of experience do you have performing facelift procedures?
What are the different types of facelift procedures available, and which one would be most suitable for my needs?
Can I see before and after photos of previous facelift patients you have treated?
What will be the specific steps involved in the facelift procedure? What type of anesthesia will be used?
What are the potential risks and complications associated with a facelift, and how are they managed?
What is the expected recovery period, and what post-operative care instructions should I follow?
What are the expected results of the facelift, and how long do they typically last?
What are the costs involved, including surgeon's fees, facility fees, anesthesia fees, and any additional expenses?

How can I prepare for a facelift?

Preparing for your facelift at FaceSculpt involves both physical and mental preparation. Here are some general guidelines to help you prepare:

Physically:

Follow Dr. Vagotis' pre-operative instructions: You will be given specific guidelines regarding medications to avoid, dietary restrictions, and any necessary pre-operative tests. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure you are in the best physical condition for surgery.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Leading up to your facelift, it is beneficial to eat a nutritious diet, exercise regularly, and get sufficient rest. Staying in good overall health can promote better healing and recovery.
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption: Smoking can impede the healing process, so it is crucial to quit smoking several weeks before the procedure. Additionally, minimizing alcohol consumption can help optimize your body's response to surgery.
Arrange for assistance: Ensure you have someone available to assist you after the surgery, as you may need help with activities such as transportation, household chores, and personal care during the initial recovery period.

Mentally:

Educate yourself about the procedure: Learn about the facelift procedure, its potential risks and benefits, and realistic expectations for the results. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions and alleviate any anxiety.
Have clear goals and expectations: Reflect on your reasons for pursuing a facelift and set realistic expectations. Discuss your goals openly with Dr. Vagotis during the consultation to ensure they align with what can be achieved through the procedure.
Prepare for the recovery process: Understand that the recovery period may involve temporary discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Mental preparation can help you stay patient and focused on the ultimate goal of achieving the desired results.
Seek support: If you feel anxious or overwhelmed, consider seeking emotional support from friends, family, or support groups. Talking to others who have undergone similar procedures can provide valuable insights and reassurance.

FACIAL PLASTIC Surgeon

Why Choose Dr. Francine Vagotis?

If you're considering facial plastic surgery in Chicago, Illinois, Dr. Francine Vagotis is the expert you can trust. With her personalized approach to care and commitment to exceptional results, you can feel confident that you're in good hands.